Like many schools in Derbyshire, Chaucer Junior school in Ilkeston has been supporting the children of key workers who can’t work at home and vulnerable children during the coronavirus outbreak.

"It has been a pleasure to play a small part in the country’s battle against the coronavirus.

"We have been open to pupils of key workers and vulnerable pupils. The staff in school have worked amazingly hard to keep these children emotionally happy and safe. We have done academic work but a lot of the learning has been around happiness, laughter, safety and spreading kindness in the community.

"The children have been collecting food and toiletries for care homes and sending messages of support to key workers.

"Important to mention is that in the background staff have also been busy communicating daily with the children at home. We have been providing them with food packages, vouchers for free school meals and stationary packs for home learning.

"We want to support parents to keep children emotionally safe and happy. We want children to laugh, have fun with their families and make memories.

"We have loved seeing the funny raps, dances, home planting and garden dens on Seesaw which is our home learning application.

"When they come back to us (whenever that is) we will plan carefully the support they need. Ensuring every child’s needs are met.

"We don't want to put too much pressure on parents. They are doing an amazing job!"

Anna Upton, Headteacher